How To Have A Successful Lunch Interview (Preparation Tips)

So, you have a lunch interview. This could mean the interviewer is pressed for time, squeezing you into a hectic schedule, or they might be the laid-back type who enjoys a more casual approach—perhaps they’ll say something like, “We believe in a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can be themselves.”

And you might be wondering: Are they serious? They want to have what could be one of the most critical conversations of your career while nibbling on appetizers?

No need to panic; a lunch interview is much like a traditional interview with a few unique twists and preparations you can easily manage.

Follow the tips below, and your lunch interview is bound to be a success—unless, of course, they run out of marinara for your mozzarella sticks. That would be a catastrophe!

Key Takeaways:

• Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure you’re settled in before the interviewer arrives, so they aren’t left waiting for you.

• Consider ordering after the interviewer to gauge the price range and opt for something light and easy to manage.

• Prepare as you would for a conventional interview and dress appropriately.

• Maintain professionalism, even in a more relaxed setting.

It’s All About Impressions

Chances are, if you’re a top candidate, the interviewer is eager to impress you as well. They may also be assessing how you conduct yourself in a business lunch scenario.

• Interviews aim to evaluate key factors: your eye contact, communication style, sense of humor, and overall interpersonal skills.

• Depending on the role’s seniority, some soft skills that set you apart may include how enjoyable you are to interact with.

• Ultimately, employers want to ascertain two things: why they would enjoy working with you and whether you might be a challenging colleague.

• Preparation is crucial in convincing employers of the first point while obscuring any potential awkwardness.

Prepare as You Would for a Traditional Interview

• Dress appropriately. Regardless of how casual the lunch setting seems, opt for formal business attire. Research the company culture beforehand to determine the right level of formality.

• Research the organization. Time is limited during the meal, so being informed helps you avoid asking questions you could answer yourself, demonstrating your preparedness.

• Practice. Perfect your elevator pitch and bring necessary materials.

• Prepare questions. Lunch interviews often serve as a second interview format; have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer, including behavioral curveballs.

Non-Traditional Steps to Prepare

In addition to researching the interviewers and understanding the route to the restaurant, familiarize yourself with the restaurant itself and its atmosphere.

• Call ahead. Review the menu and check for allergy issues in advance to avoid any last-minute location changes.

• Plan your order. While you don’t need to decide right away, be ready to minimize delay if the interviewer has a tight schedule.

• Understand the restaurant’s vibe. If you’re unfamiliar with the location, assess the ambiance and noise level. Since note-taking is less feasible during a lunch interview, review key information ahead of time.

• Prepare short notes. A small cheat sheet of questions or a notepad for jotting down insights can be helpful, but keep materials minimal.

When to Arrive

First, confirm the meeting location—don’t assume a particular branch based solely on proximity—and aim to arrive fifteen minutes early.

This timing allows you to avoid the anxiety of wondering if they are already waiting for you. Wait at the entrance, as you would at a reception desk, ensuring you catch them as they arrive.

How to Order

Always try to order after the interviewer to gauge acceptable price points and observe their lunch habits.

Most likely, they’re familiar with the menu, so feel free to ask for recommendations. If they insist you order first, choose wisely.

Opt for light fare; a large breakfast will allow for a salad or something easy to handle. Avoid messy foods that could distract from the conversation. If they order mozzarella sticks, feel free to join in—it shows you’re relatable.

As a final note, steer clear of alcohol, even if the interviewer suggests it. Save the celebration for later—your focus should remain sharp.

Lunch Interview Etiquette

Aside from the casual nature of a lunch interview, remember that the interviewer is evaluating how you would perform in similar business situations if hired, especially for roles that involve client interaction.

Make a good impression: keep your elbows off the table, say please and thank you, place your napkin on your lap, and maintain good posture. Always chew with your mouth closed, regardless of your upbringing.

Additionally, treating service staff with respect not only reflects well on you but can positively influence the interviewer’s perception. They are watching your behavior closely.

Lunch Interview Tips

1. Let the interviewer lead. The tone of a lunch interview can be less formal than a traditional one. Follow your interviewer’s lead and mirror their conversational style. If they start with small talk, feel free to reciprocate, but steer clear of sensitive topics like politics or religion.

   When the conversation shifts to professional topics, be ready to adapt your tone accordingly.

2. About the bill. Don’t concern yourself with the cost; they likely invited you and expect to cover it. If the bill lands near you, it’s best to ignore it.

   Thank your interviewer for the meal, compliment the restaurant (especially if it’s a local favorite), and express your desire to continue the conversation.

3. Stay professional, even in a social setting. Remember, this is still an interview, regardless of the casual atmosphere. Companies may send a friendly employee to help you relax, but maintain your professionalism.

   Let the server handle the selling—avoid pitching yourself aggressively, and remain attentive to the conversation’s direction, whether personal or professional.

4. Follow up and express gratitude. Don’t forget to send a follow-up email within 24 hours of the interview. Your thank-you note should reference a memorable moment from your discussion.

   In addition to expressing appreciation, highlight your qualifications and fit within the company culture, and express enthusiasm for the next steps in the hiring process. Keep it concise; it’s an important courtesy for savvy job seekers.

Author

David Luther

David Luther was the Content Marketing Editor for the Zippia Advice blog. He developed partnerships with external reporting agencies in addition to generating original research and reporting for the Zippia Career Advice blog. David obtained his BA from UNC Chapel Hill.